They say familiarity breeds contempt, and the all too familiar seagull seems to bring about a similar kind of disdain, or at the very least, a form of ambivalence. They're everywhere, and consequently don't get the kind of respect or appreciation we afford other birds.

Well, during my recent visit to Seattle I stayed in a hotel room right on Puget sound that came with exquisite views, perfect sunsets, and a pair of seagulls nesting right below my balcony, all contributing to a new found love and respect for this incredibly adaptive and graceful bird. They won me over. Or at least woke me up every morning with their raucous call.